Located in one of the oldest historic buildings in Pistoia, grafted onto a fascinating layering of ancient structures dating back to the Middle Ages, Palazzo 42 is the only boutique hotel in the historic center of the city, perfectly matching contemporary charm and history.

At number 42 of Via Curtatone e Montanara, in the heart of Pistoia, there is one of the buildings that best preserves the authentic history of the city, which for centuries has been a “place of rest” for wayfarers crossing Tuscany. The fresco placed in the rear entrance, dating back to 1329, is in fact an authentic testimony of its historical function as lodging.

In 2018 the complex undertook a complete renovation that in 2021 led to the opening of Palazzo 42, named in reference to its street number, the first boutique hotel in Pistoia as well as a true hymn of love for the city.

In the design project of Palazzo 42 we aimed to create a new “dress” for this historic city hotel, sewing it on top of its history with great care and love.

(Francesca Brunetti, Interior Designer)

The history of Pistoia, as well as that of Palazzo 42, has in fact always been linked to that of merchants and captains of fortune: it was a mutatio in Roman times (the place where officials and legionaries stopped to change horses and refresh themselves) and, subsequently, it became one of the fundamental stages of the Camino de Santiago, as well as an important railway hub.

The boutique hotel, a few steps from the Accademia degli Armonici or Circolo delle Stanze, which was an entertainment venue for Pistoia society until the mid-1900s, is located inside a building erected above the walls of Lombard origin of the city, grafting onto a layering of previous structures that date back to the Middle Ages.

The restoration of Palazzo 42, overseen by the Pistoia company Maior Contract, intended to enhance this original aspect through, in particular, the collaboration with local artisans and companies from the area. Historical elements also appear in the interior design, such as the graphics inspired by vintage cadastral maps, as well as contemporary botanical-themed brushstrokes that give the spaces a charming atmosphere.

The color palette ranges from shades of blue to sage green, from antique pink to golden bronze, and it is also declined in the original wallpapers and in the soft velvets that cover the seats.

Contemporary touches like zoomorphic sculptural lamps and brass coffee tables stand out in the 23 guestrooms, each one customized with a unique decor. All of them boast a walk-in shower and, the number 108, also a cool vintage-style clawfoot tub, as well as many services aimed at maximum comfort such as Simmons mattresses and professional hair-dryers.

The 4 beautiful suites all have private sitting room and balcony where, upon request, it is possible to have breakfast during the summer while admiring the dome of the famous Basilica della Madonna dell’Umiltà, projected by Vasari.

Breakfast, served in the cozy room on the main floor, is prepared fresh every morning in the artisan pastry shop next to the hotel, giving guests a sweet awakening made up of fragrant croissants, cakes and mignons. While, for those who love savory food, you can choose from a selection of the best Tuscan cold cuts and cheeses including pecorino and delicious ricotta cheeses to be garnished with dried fruit or as desired.

The environment, an intimate sitting room, is also perfect for having tea or an after-dinner drink in front of the fireplace to unwind after a shopping session guided by the personal shopper, one of the many concierge services made available to hotel guests.
Complete the treat of a stay in Palazzo 42, a private car park located a few steps from the main entrance, with both covered and uncovered parking spaces.

The Secret

From the breakfast room, there’s a very particular corridor that leads to room 111. As you walk along it, you will notice a curious difference in the floor level which hides a secret. Down there, in fact, there still are the original steps belonging to two medieval buildings, which were later merged into one and then covered by the current floor.

Useful Info

Palazzo 42
Via Curtatone e Montanara 42
51100 Pistoia 
Tel. +39 0573 569268

Rooms: from 100 euro (breakfast included, low season) to 240 euro (breakfast included, high season)